Summer 2018 Performer Catalog - Department of Libraries
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Summer 2018
Performer Catalog
1Performer Index
• Arts Bus, Inc ………………………………………………………………………pg. 3
• Chris 'Hoopoe' Yerlig ....……………………………………………………...…pg. 4
• Christine Mix …………………………. …………………………………………..pg. 5
• Dance with Ashley …………………………………………………….....…......pg. 6
• Dennis G. Waring, Ph.D ………………………………………………………....pg. 7
• Dinoman Science Series ……………………………………………….…..…..pg. 8
• Ed Popielarczyk …………………………………………………………………..pg. 9
• Ellie's Preschool Parties …………………………………………..……….....pg. 10
• Exordium ……………………………………………………………..……….….pg.11
• Gail Martin ……………………………………………………………………..…pg. 12
• Ilze Luneau from Basketball Family …………………………………………pg. 13
• John (Jake) Geppert …………………………………………………………..pg. 14
• Jon Gailmor ………………………………………………………………………pg. 15
• Kelley Hunter …………………………………………………………………….pg. 16
• Marek Bennett's Comics Workshop …..…………………………………….pg. 17
• Marilyn Taylor McDowell ………………………………………………………pg. 18
• Marko the Magician ……………………………………………………..……..pg. 19
• Meredith Holch ………………………………………………………………….pg. 20
• Michael Caduto ..…………………………………………………………...pg. 21-22
• Mister Chris and Friends ………………………………………………………pg. 23
• Modern Times Theater ………………………………………………………...pg. 24
• Peter Burns ………………………………………………………………………pg. 25
• Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate ………………………………….…………..pg. 26
• Saragail Benjamin ……………………………………..………….……………pg. 27
• Simon Brooks ……………. ……………………………….……………….…...pg. 28
• Stephen Coronella………………………………………….……………….….pg. 29
• Storytelling with Shawn ……………………………………………………….pg. 30
• Summer Encore …………………………………..…………………………….pg. 31
• Susan Rule …………………………………………….…………………………pg. 32
• Susanna & Joan ……………………………….………………………………..pg. 33
• Swing Peepers ……………………………………….………………………….pg. 34
• Taradiddle ..……………………………………………………………………..pg. 35
• The Annies Music and Puppets ……………………………………..……….pg. 36
• The Puppetree, Inc ………………………………………………….………….pg. 37
• The Traveling Storyteller and Co …………………………………………….pg. 38
• Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) ……………………………...pg. 39
These performers are also viewable at
https://vtperformers.wordpress.com/tag/summer-2018/
2Arts Bus, Inc.
Contact person: Sharon Trautwein
Location: Randolph, VT
Phone: (802) 431-6203
Email: executivedirector@artsbusvt.org
Website: www.artsbusvt.org
Ages: 2-18
Length: 1-2 hours
Fee: $500
Program description:
Exploring the Arts is the Arts Bus Project’s general education program. It provides pre-school and school
aged youth (ages 2-18) with ongoing activities and one-time classes in visual arts (painting, collage,
paper arts, mask-making), music, movement, yoga, theater arts, crafts (ceramics, woodworking, fabric
arts), storytelling and writing, and a wide range of learning projects (e.g. studying and creating Egyptian
obelisks, prehistoric cave art, Maori war dances, Greek theatrical masks, and Chinese calligraphy). Our
teaching artists work hard to build curriculum based on the themes required for each visit. We will
easily be able to create a variety of activities based on the theme Libraries Rock.
Special requirements:
We are versatile in our space requirements. Most of our activities take place on or near our bus but may
also take place in the library as needed, such as for our work with Sayon Camera Drumming.
3Chris ‘Hoopoe’ Yerlig
Contact person: Chris Yerlig
Location: Amherst, MA/Brattleboro, VT
Phone: (413) 695-4001
Email: chris@mimealot.com
Website: http://www.mimealot.com
Ages: 3-103
Length: 45-60 minutes
Fee: $425- one show, including transport up to 50 miles from Brattleboro. Two shows same day in
2 libraries within 20 miles $700
Program description:
An original and amusing blend of mime and magic illusions, balloon tricks and lots of audience
participation and volunteers. The 'Libraries Rock' theme is represented by a mime charades guessing
game using the word 'rock', a magic appearing rock, 'rock' juggling', and 'rock' music (music from
instruments encased in imitation rock).
Special requirements:
None.
4Christine Mix
Contact person: Christine Mix
Location: Weston, VT
Phone: (802) 856-7494
Email: cmixart2@gmail.com
Website: www.christinemixart.com
Ages: 6 & up, Family, Intergenerational (children under 6 must be accompanied by an adult)
Length: 45 mins to 1 hr - 3 hrs depending on program.
Fee: $150.00 to 350.00 mileage included*
Program description:
Libraries Rock! In this fun program, children will be introduced to songs of classic rock legends, such as
the Beatles, Elvis, James Taylor and others through books and/or audio CDs. They will have a chance to
draw and design their own illustration, album / CD cover or cartoon, to their favorite songs or music
artist, with children’s illustrator Christine Mix.
Special requirements:
• Electricity for audio player / computer & small speaker. (Artist will bring audio equipment).
• Art materials needed: Drawing paper, heavy weight watercolor paper or cartoon boards, tracing
paper, graphite pencils, colored pencils, pens, markers, crayons, rulers, erasers, artist or
painter's tape.
*Material fees are not included in program fee. Materials could run between an extra $40.00 – $100.00,
depending on number of children & length of class. Will work with libraries to keep material fees down,
and artist may bring extra materials as well to help out.
5Dance with Ashley
Contact person: Ashley Hensel-Browning
Location: Weathersfield, VT
Phone: (802) 263-5253
Email: dancewithashley@gmail.com
Website: http://dancewithashley.org
Ages: Birth - 18
Length: 1 hour
Fee: $150-$200 depending on distance
Program description:
Ashley offers movement programs that fuse literary topics with dance. She uses techniques such as
tableau poetry, physical enactments of picture books, or self-choreographed dances on a specific theme
to encourage kids’ deeper understanding of both books and dance. Programs emphasize participant
involvement, inquiry, and community building. Engaging music, warm-ups, and movement games round
out the program for a fun and joyful experience for everyone involved. Programs can be tailored
specifically for kids or designed to include people of all ages for an inter-generational experience
exploring the written word and the moving body together.
Program can be easily tailored to the "Libraries Rock!" library theme thorough collaborative play, dance-
making, and movement, including music that gets you rockin'! Programs for teens available as well.
Special requirements:
Program requires an open space. Program available year-round and the artist is very interested in
collaborating with library staff on current library themes.
6Dennis G. Waring, Ph.D.
Contact person: Dennis G. Waring
Location: Guilford, VT
Phone: (860)-347-5354
Email: waringinstruments@waringmusic.com
Website: www.waringmusic.com
Ages: All ages/family
Length: 1 hour
Fee: $250.00
Program description:
ROCK THE WORLD
Take a musical tour of six different world music cultures. Using authentic musical instruments gathered
by ethnomusicologist Dr. Dennis Waring during his two world voyages, participants will join in with
rhythm and song to experience the excitement of Latin America, Africa, India, China, Native peoples and
folkloric USA. Educational and entertaining, audiences are encouraged to rock to the global sounds of
music old and new.
Special requirements:
Four six foot tables and four armless chairs.
7Dinoman Science Series
Contact person: Bob Lisaius
Location: Warren, VT
Phone: (802) 496-6109
Email: icefire@madriver.com
Website: http://dinoman.org/
Ages: Age 4 and up
Length: 40 minutes
Fee: $395. Two libraries booking on the same day - $295 each
Program description:
Rock the Rocks! How fossils tell the tale of earth's past.
This fast paced program is all about dinosaurs and other amazing creatures from our planet's distant
history. How are fossils created? How do we know how old they are? Where can you find them? As
with all Dinoman programs life-size examples will fill the space. After the program those who would like
to touch dinosaur bones, bugs in amber, a meteorite, and other artifacts are encouraged to stay.
Is the presentation scientific? Check. Is it filled with magic and wonderful props? Double check. Is it fun
for the entire family? Triple check!
Dinoman's Rock the Rocks is sure to be a fun learning experience for young and old alike.
Special requirements:
This program has new dinosaurs that are fine with 8 foot and higher ceilings.
8Ed Popielarczyk
Contact person: Ed Popielarczyk
Location: Florence, MA
Phone: (413) 584-7675
Email: balloonpop@comcast.net
Website: www.edpop.com
Ages: 3 and up (maybe younger, depending on the child)
Length: 45-50 minutes
Fee: $350.00, $300 if block booking. The shows don't have to be on the same day. I don't charge for
mileage.
Program description:
My name is Ed Popielarczyk. I am a professional magician, balloon sculptor, and storyteller. I have been
entertaining children and family audiences for over thirty years.
My magic show is a comedy show that uses a lot of audience participation. The kids are the stars
because they make the magic happen. I usually have lots of trouble! I don’t just “do a trick” I tell a story
that revolves around each trick. It may be a short story or a longer one, but each story helps to bring the
trick together. Thru out the show I will be using "special music" to try to get my flowers to grow!
The flea circus is a great show from days gone by. It is an entire big top circus in miniature! The audience
will be thrilled and amazed with Ed’s trained fleas!! I have a lot of the kids helping during the show by
holding a flea or a prop while the flea does a stunt! The kids do a lot of cheering to give the fleas
encouragement.
I am also a balloon artist. I make hats, animals, flowers, cartoon characters, airplanes, etc.
Special requirements:
None. I bring a sound system and any tables that I need.
9Ellie’s Preschool Parties
Contact person: Ellie Tetrick
Location: Colchester, VT
Phone: (802) 878-7809 or (212) 464-8936 (cell)
Email: elliesparties@comcast.net
Ages: 1-5 years (preschoolers) with a maximum of 30 children
Length: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Fee: $200- (plus mileage if location is beyond a 30 mile radius of Colchester. For extra mileage, add
60 cents per mile)
Program description:
Ellie Tetrick has worked for over 20 years as an Early Childhood Music Educator. Her warm, engaging
approach along with her age-appropriate “hands-on” activities always provide a positive setting where
preschoolers are encouraged to share their creative ideas, which are incorporated into the fun!
Ellie entertains preschool age children (ages 1-5 years) with fun, interactive musical activities including a
guitar sing-a-long with instruments (such as bells, shakers, tambourines and maracas), movement to
music, rhythm stick activities, dancing with ribbons, parachute fun and lots and lots of bubbles!
In keeping with theme “Libraries ROCK!”, Ellie will take preschoolers on a fun, imaginative journey into
the “rock” theme. What preschooler doesn’t like to collect rocks, or play in the sand and mud? Whether
they are singing about “One little, Two little, Three little Pebbles” during a guitar singalong, dancing with
ribbons to rock music, or doing a fun “stepping stone” activity, your littlest library patrons will be
actively and musically engaged with all sorts of music and movement fun. As always, parachute games
and lots and LOTS of bubbles will be incorporated into the theme!
Ellie entertains for 45 minutes, and also takes an extra 15 minutes to hand out stickers and get
acquainted with the children.
Ellie Tetrick has worked for over 20 years as an Early Childhood Music Educator and children’s
entertainer. She is also a singer, musician and professional actor.
Special requirements:
A large, open space for movement (carpeting is preferred, but a tile or wood floor is fine!), a small table
for program materials, electrical outlet for CD player (which will be provided)
10Exordium
Contact person: Kurt J. Valenta
Location: Enosburg Falls, VT
Phone: (802) 285-2025 (office) or (802) 238-3697 (cell)
Email: mrk@exordium-adventure.com
Website: www.exordium-adventure.com
Ages: 5 years of age and older
Length: 3 programs each 1 hour in length
Fee: Single program - $140.00 + mileage from Enosburg Falls. Multiple program discounts & block
booking available
Program description:
Three separate programs as outlined below:
*Program 1 - A Sound Investigation
We will be looking at what causes sound, why music boxes work and how we recognize familiar sounds.
A hands-on, audience-participation demonstration that will leave the students with a greater knowledge
of the phenomenon we call sound.
*Program 2 – Rocks, Part of a Never-Ending Cycle
We will look at various types of rocks and how they are transformed to create yet other rocks with
different properties and characteristics. We shall also become aware of how rocks affect our daily lives
and the products we use every day.
*Program 3 - Rocking it with Panpipes
Make your own 3 tone panpipe from invasive Japanese Knotweed and learn how to tie the knots that
will hold the tubes together. Participants will have a decorated instrument to take home that will
produce notes and look like the native Inca instruments.
Special requirements:
Exordium programs are completely self-contained and the only requirement is adequate room for
participants to either work on their craft or investigate phenomena in small groups.
11Gail Martin
Contact person: Gail Martin
Location: Bristol, VT
Phone: (802) 989-8208
Email: origaili@yahoo.com
Ages: 7 years - Adult
Length: 1-2 hours (longer for interested people)
Fee: $100.00 + up to $30.00 mileage. Discounts for book blocking, fee negotiable.
Program description:
Paper, Scissors, Rock! In this class, we will make a fox for the Rocks, a heart for your favorite rock, and a
box for your rocks! We may also make a "crystal" skeletal octahedron (easier to make than it is to say!),
and maybe even a crane to perch on a rock. I have been teaching origami for about 20 years. I will gauge
the models to fit the abilities of the class. My goal is to teach origami in every town in Vermont, and I'm
about 1/3 of the way there!
Special requirements:
Everybody will need a seat and a space at a table. I am happy to teach to slightly younger children if they
are accompanied by an adult. Because of the nature of origami, please limit class size to 20. I love to
travel to far corners of the state- it's my vacation!
12Ilze Luneau from Basketball Family
Contact person: Ilze Luneau
Location: Enosburg Falls, VT
Phone: (315) 345-0613
Email: theluneaus@earthlink.net
Website: www.basketballfamily.com
Ages: 3-100
Length: 45 minutes
Fee: $350
Program description:
Basketball tricks with volunteer involvement and message of setting goals, working hard, never giving up
and being kind.
Special requirements:
No need for hoop, just solid floor area 10x12 feet, and sound system.
13John (Jake) Geppert
Contact person: Jake Geppert
Location: Weston, VT
Phone: (802) 856-7494
Email: jgeppertmusic@gmail.com
Website: www.jakegeppertsongs.com
Ages: 6 and up, family, intergenerational
Length: 1 hour
Fee: $150-$300, mileage included*
Program description:
Libraries Rock! "Uke Can Read, Uke Can Rock"
Jake Geppert will present a history of the Ukulele and it's journey into Rock and Roll. As a group, kids
will write & play a short rock song of their own. Kids are encouraged to bring a Uke, if they have one,
and be ready to read, write and rock! (Uke not required).
Special requirements:
Flat dry space (10’x10’), electric power
*Anything over 3 hrs travel each way, may require extra fees and / or accommodations
14Jon Gailmor
Contact person: Jon Gailmor
Location: Lake Elmore, VT
Phone: (802) 888-3625
Email: gailmurph@pshift.com
Website: www.jongailmor.com
Ages: All
Length: 40-45 minutes
Fee: $300 all inclusive if within an hour's drive. If further, mileage may be added and/or fee is
negotiable. $250 if block-booked.
Program description:
Original and traditional songs, with rampant audience involvement. ROCK and roll, songs about reading,
oceans and other natural environments with rocks in them, etc. I can also facilitate a group songwriting
session, about rocks, libraries, or any other subject that the audience is passionate about. That original
song will be totally kid-generated and I'll leave a CD of it in the library for duplication, as the library sees
fit.
Special requirements:
No special equipment or special considerations and no geographic limitations
15Kelley Hunter
Contact person: Kelley Hunter
Location: East Calais, VT
Phone: 802-456-1078
Email: kellhunter@earthlink.net
Website: www.heliastar.com
Ages: 7 and up
Length: 75-90 minutes
Fee: $95.00 plus mileage over 100 miles from Montpelier
Program description:
Our Solar System Rocks!
Astronomers continue to discover new rocks in our ever-expanding solar system— planetoids, asteroids,
moons, comets and more. After an up-to-date overview, we will hear stories of several new planetoids
in the far solar system, named for indigenous creator gods from around the world. Pages to color will be
shared from Planetary Gods & Goddesses Coloring Book.
Special requirements:
Computer projector and screen.
16Marek Bennett’s COMICS WORKSHOP
Contact person: Marek Bennett
Location: Henniker, NH
Phone: (603) 428-7049
Email: marek@marekbennett.com
Website: www.MarekBennett.com
Ages: Adaptable to program needs; suggested groupings = [Elementary/age 7-10] [Pre-teen/age 10-
13] [Teen+]
Length: 1-3 hours
Fee: $350 + mileage
Program description:
Join NH teaching artist Marek Bennett’s COMICS WORKSHOP on a magical quest that ONLY YOU can
draw… Using blank paper, pencils, ink, and four basic “storytelling elements”, we’ll draw what happens
when lines, dots, and blobs turn into mysterious characters and settings with surprising powers and
secrets. We’ll also look at how artists and authors use peer feedback to improve their work and get it
out to new readers.
More info = https://marekbennett.com/comics-rock
Special requirements:
Tables & chairs, pencils, copy paper (8.5×11), easel (or clear wall or other display surface)
17Marilyn Taylor McDowell
Contact person: Marilyn Taylor McDowell
Location: Danville, VT
Phone: (802) 227-3143
Email: marilyn@marilyntaylormcdowell.com OR mtaylormc@yahoo.com
Website: www.marilyntaylormcdowell.com
Ages: Preschool – 6th Grade
Length: 1 hour
Fee: $250.00 and mileage if venue is over one hour from home
Program description:
Storytelling. Marilyn leads her audience through funny and engaging stories using a flannel board to
illustrate characters and setting. She offers lots of encouragement to gain audience participation.
Preschoolers are fascinated with the flannel pieces while older children are entertained by the
storyteller's theatrical antics. Fast-paced. Full of silliness and fun. Literacy in action.
Special requirements:
Summer storytelling can take place outside or inside. The best outdoor space offers wind and rain
protection as well as a minimum of street or construction noise and a space that allows children to sit
close.
18MARKO the Magician
Contact person: Marko (Mark Gagnon)
Location: Montpelier, VT
Phone: 802-777-2557
Email: marko@markomarko.com
Website: www.markomarko.com
Ages: All ages
Length: 30 - 45 minutes & 1 hour
Fee: $300.00 - $400.00 & $500.00
Program description:
Marko, in conjunction with the Departments of: Education, Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Health, Safety,
Libraries, The Red Cross, Fire Marshall’s Office and School Nurse Association, has developed four unique
and innovative programs.
Marko also has general shows that can be tailored show to meet your specific needs.
Special requirements:
No limitations.
19Meredith Holch
Contact person: Meredith Holch
Location: East Hardwick, VT
Phone: (802) 472-5787
Email: meredithholch@gmail.com
Website: https://youtu.be/sQ9T1j0GEN4 and https://youtu.be/iPyY3dOnNl0
Ages: 3-10/family
Length: 45 minutes – 60 minutes
Fee: $200/ show mileage included
Program description:
The program includes three or four crankie picture shows written, illustrated, and performed by
Meredith Holch. Illustrations are handpainted on a scroll and inserted into a wooden "crankie" box. As
Holch tells the story, she turns the crank and the pictures move. After the show, viewers are invited to
see how the mechanics of the crankie works and to turn the crank. Live musical interludes and sing-
alongs are always part of the show, including violin, harmonica, and sometimes trumpet.
"Pickled Paula," tells a story about a girl who eats so many pickles she turns into one herself,
"Melanie Grey," is a story about a girl who stays up all night and builds a moth house.
"Walter Hunt" tells the history of the man who invented the safety pin.
A brand new show for summer 2018 incorporates the theme of Libraries Rock into a crankie which is
now in development. The new story is about a time machine made out of books. Instead of going into
the future the protagonist goes into prehistoric times and finds a world of giant rocks. Ultimately, it is
the book-machine that helps him narrowly escape an avalanche and return to the present.
Meredith Holch has performed her crankies at the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Brooklyn Folk Festival,
the Ballard Puppetry Muséum at UConn, Art Yard, Jalopey Theater, Bread and Puppet Theater, Festival
of Fools, VT as well as at community venues and farmers markets in Vermont and NYC. Her animated
videos have screened at the Muséum of Modern Art (MoMA, NYC), the National Art Gallery, the
Exploratorium and on PBS among other museums, art galléries and international film festivals. She hold
an MFA from Bard College.
Special requirements:
No limitations.
20Michael Caduto
Contact person: Michael Caduto
Location: Norwich, VT
Phone: (802) 649-1815
Email: michaelcaduto@p-e-a-c-e.net
Website: www.p-e-a-c-e.net
Ages: 5 and up
Length: 1 hour
Fee: $300 (mileage included)
Program description:
ENERGY ROCKS!
Kids’ Power Program
Michael Caduto—award winning environmentalist, master storyteller, singer-songwriter,
creator/coauthor of Keepers of the Earth® and author of Catch the Wind, Harness the Sun: 22 Super-
Charged Science Projects for Kids—presents a high-octane, entertaining program about renewable
energy explored through science & the arts. Storytelling, music, nature-powered special effects and kid-
powered demonstrations of renewable energy engage children in the process of transforming the forces
of nature into energy for everyday living. This humorous program is full of facts and activities that reveal
simple ways to harness natural energy & help reduce climate change.
Program Highlights
Kid-Powered Demonstrations of:
• wind power
• solar energy
• magnetic-electrical power
• energy special effects
• Indigenous Tales of Sun & Wind
• Fun Energy Facts Quiz Show (with prizes!)
21• Music for all ages to sing along
• Cool Renewable-Powered Toys & Gadgets
• Personal Power Station
“Your performance was a Summit favorite.” — National Wildlife Federation,
Washington, D.C.
“A dynamic and powerful performance.” — Librarian, Oliver Wolcott Library, Litchfield, Connecticut
“He had the audience entranced.” — Librarian, Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, Vermont
“The children were captivated.” — Librarian, Keene Public Library, New Hampshire
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Michael J. Caduto is known for his entertaining, dynamic presentations of science, storytelling, song and
stewardship. His popular books include the KEEPERS OF THE EARTH® series, EARTH TALES FROM
AROUND THE WORLD and CATCH THE WIND, HARNESS THE SUN: 22 SUPER-CHARGED SCIENCE
PROJECTS FOR KIDS, which won the Teacher’s Choice Award. His other awards include the Aesop Prize,
NAPPA Gold Award, Storytelling World Honor Award, New England Environmental Educator Award and
New York State Art & Literary Award. He also founded P.E.A.C.E®—Programs for Environmental
Awareness & Cultural Exchange—to promote Earth Stewardship and cultural diversity. He has traveled
throughout North America, Europe and the Middle East presenting performances, workshops and
keynotes to more than 500,000 people. www.p-e-a-c-e.net
Special requirements:
A space that can be darkened or semi-darkened for solar-powered demonstrations involving light, is
helpful.
22Mister Chris and Friends
Contact person: Chris Dorman
Location: South Burlington, VT
Phone: (802) 497-7217
Email: mail@musicforsprouts.com
Website: www.musicforsprouts.com
Ages: Birth to 8 with focus on accessibility to the whole family
Length: 35 minutes – 1 hour based on space, audience size, and desire of library
Fee: $500 requested base rate for solo shows - add $250 for each band member (includes CD for each
family who attends)*
Program description:
With nurturing lyrics and uplifting melodies, we engage children and families in a manner that is accessible,
inspires new ideas, imaginative play, and laughter. We invite kiddos to be themselves and provide
opportunities to sing, move, explore, share ideas, or simply sit quietly and take it all in. Listening is Giving!
We listen to our audiences and shape our shows to the space and the families taking part.
Libraries do rock and words are like clues to lead us to new discoveries! One of my very favorite children's
books is On The Day You Were Born by Debra Frasier. What is yours?! Perhaps we could read a story or two
in our show this year or create our own brand new story song based on the ideas kiddos share. Collaborative
Improvisational Songwriting is the theme of a workshop we take to Elementary Schools. I think it might be
incredibly fun and totally possible to adapt this program to an all ages audience. We could also pick sight
words to honor as recurring themes throughout our show. We also have a character called ABC Caterpillar
who comes along to all of our shows.
My name is Chris Dorman and most families call me Mister Chris. In 2012, I founded Music For Sprouts, a
Birth to Five music and movement program at our family farm Bread & Butter Farm in Shelburne, Vermont.
I've had the honor to write, record 3 albums for children and families, perform regularly in libraries in
Chittenden County, outdoor festivals, and more.
Beginning Monday, November 20 at 10:30am families around Vermont and New Hampshire can watch the
Pilot episode of our new Vermont PBS Children's TV show, Mister Chris And Friends. There may be some
possibility of collaboration with Vermont PBS for these shows for this Summer will likely be the official launch
of Season One of our show!
Special requirements:
We have a pretty simple set up. Two tables and a chair are all we need.
*Please know our rates are negotiable based on each library's budget and travel is included. We know each
library and community is unique.
23Modern Times Theater
Contact person: Rose Friedman
Location: East Hardwick, VT
Phone: (802) 472-8987
Email: moderntimestheater@gmail.com
Website: www.moderntimestheater.com
Ages: Appropriate for all ages, best for ages 3-10
Length: 45-60 minutes
Fee: $350 plus mileage
Program description:
“That’s What I Call Sweet Music”
The hills are alive with the sound of music in this all-ages puppet production.
“Sweet Music” follows the troubles and travails of puppetry’s favorite loudmouth, Mr. Punch as he sings
his way through trouble, adventure, and triumph. Included in the cast are the Bozo Brothers, who
delight audiences with their dynamic percussive dance routines. This is hand-puppetry at its best in a
style that has entertained children for centuries. It addition to the puppet show, the program also
features a mini concert, offering selections from an extensive repertoire of early jazz, classic American
folk songs and original novelty numbers, performed on the cornet, ukulele, upright bass, five string
banjo, and bicycle pump, as well as homemade instruments.
The program can also be paired with a junk music and sound experimentation workshop, in which
participants create and learn to play instruments made from everyday household objects.
Rose Friedman and Justin Lander have been making and performing puppet shows together since 2003.
They are co-founders of Vermont Vaudeville, Vermont's premier Vaudeville troupe. Librarians say
Modern Times Theater "engages all ages with their superb talent, wit and enthusiasm", and "you must,
must see them in person"!
Special requirements:
Need a performing area 8'x8', with a ceiling height minimum of 8'; and access to an electrical outlet.
24Peter Burns
Contact: Peter Burns, Storyteller
Location: Winooski, VT
Phone: (802) 399-7095
Email: heatofhistory@gmail.com
Ages: 2 and up
Length: 1 hour
Fee: $225, $175 Block Booking, mileage included
Program description:
Libraries rock because they are filled with books and a helpful librarian or two! Peter's summer program
shows children how and way libraries rock.
One of the main goals of summer reading programs is to prevent the loss of reading skills over the
summer. Once children discover the worlds of wonder in their local library, they won't want to stop
reading!
Storyteller Peter Burns has created a program that will inspire even the most reluctant reader to dive
into the magic of books. He will tell stories from 'Danny Kaye's Around the World Storytelling Book', a
volume that inspired him to become a storyteller. Peter also reads aloud from some of his favorite
books and through his own lifelong love affair with reading opens up the wonderful world of reading for
kids of all ages. This is a highly interactive show, with lots of laughs and some magic as well.
Peter Burns has been telling stories for children in Vermont and beyond for 30 years. He leads book
discussions for the Vermont Humanities Council and the Fletcher Free Library. His work has been
featured on NPR and New Hampshire Public Radio.
Special requirements:
None.
25Rockin’ Ron the Friendly Pirate
Contact person: Ron Carter
Location: Jeffersonville, VT
Phone: (802) 793-7095
Email: RockinRonTheFriendlyPirate@gmail.com
Website: www.RockinRonTheFriendlyPirate.com
Ages: Family- specifically 3-7 years, but I do songs for all ages
Length: 45-60 minutes
Fee: $150-$350 (mileage included)
Program description:
Rockin' Ron the Friendly Pirate stepping aboard! I love to ROCK - musically and like a ship on the ocean. I
even have a song called Rock the Plank. I perform Pirate Music and Sea Songs for ALL Ages. I sing to my
own guitar accompaniment and to tracks from my stylistically diverse albums Give Me an RRR, Pirate
PaRRRty, and The Flying Pirate Circus. My interactive songs have boat loads of wordplay. Topics include
language, history, special occasions, and values. My characters are easily relate-able. My approach is
Sesame Street meets Monty Python. I am releasing an ILLUSTRATED CHILDREN'S BOOK called The Flying
Pirate Circus based on my lyrics. I hope all Libraries will carry my book.
Special requirements:
Access to power. Space to set my equipment, with room for me to do motions and dance moves.
26Saragail Benjamin
Contact person: Saragail Benjamin
Location: Winooski, VT
Phone: (914) 500-7157
Email: saragail@saragailbenjamin.com
Website: www.saragailbenjamin.com
Ages: All ages, 1-102 years old
Length: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Fee: Starting at $250, going up, depending on type of program, expected # of attendees, &
location. Block booking discounts available
Program description:
GROUP DRUMMING STORYTELLING
LIBRARIES ROCK! WHAT ROCKS MORE THAN DRUMS!?! Saragail Benjamin, published author,
songwriter, & master drum circle facilitator, brings hundreds of drums to libraries. Everyone plays
percussion together in 100% interactive, participatory programs. Saragail gets everyone playing
together, then the exploring begins. Can we drum a story? Dance it? Sing it? Rock it to the moon?
Absolutely! Creative, innovative fun for all ages. Age-appropriate programs, ages 1-102, for up to 500
participants—no prior musical experience required!
FICTION & SONGWRITING workshops, too! With a lifetime spent working with words & music, in
addition to her drumming programs, Saragail leads workshops for writers of fiction and songs. She
hears the music and rhythm in everything and helps writers do the same, as they search for their own
inner voice, for their unique spirit song.
Special requirements:
Access to an electrical outlet, aspace where we can freely make a lot of noise. I can provide percussion
instruments for up to 500 participants for the duration of any program. I will go anywhere in VT.
27Simon Brooks
Contact person: Simon Brooks
Location: New London, NH
Phone: (603) 877-0033
Email: simon@diamondscree.com
Website: www.SimonBrooksStoryteller.com
Ages: 5 and up/families
Length: 40-60 plus minutes
Fee: $280.00 plus mileage (Fed rate), 10% discount for block booking and shared mileage
Program description:
Folk and fairy tales are filled with rocks, from the fey living beneath rocky mountains, to not-so-smart
heroes with rocks in their heads (or people thinking it so), to the stories of giants throwing rocks at one
another.
Simon Brooks will bring his lively, engaging storytelling to entertain not just the kids, but the also the
care providers. Simon understands that keeping the adults laughing and connected to the stories is part
of the job (it's not just about the kids), and he does it well.
Simon will be sharing stories like his almost scary "Three Billy Goats Gruff" to "Hans and the King's Well,"
and "Clever Gretel," with a host of others to choose from, ideal for families and kids over the age of five.
Special requirements:
No limitations, I have my special equipment, and I can fit in and tell stories in most spaces including
small ones!
28Stephen Coronella
Contact person: Stephen Coronella
Location: Putney, VT
Phone: (802) 258-0438
Email: swcoronella@gmail.com
Ages: All ages
Length: 45-60 minutes/ plus time for kids to play with instruments after the show
Fee: $250 ($300 if over 100 miles; block bookings $200 each show)
Program description:
A high energy and interactive folk/rock children's/family concert with songs and stories performed on
guitar, flutes, hammer dulcimer, marimbas, harmonica and more. Especially designed to shake, rattle,
rock and roll libraries and inspire reading in the oral tradition of music and storytelling through the
vanishing lore of a one man troubadour. Songs and tales from Robin Hood to Bo Diddley, Johnny
Appleseed to Mavis Staples. Enjoyable for all ages and guaranteed a ton of fun!!
Stephen Coronella has performed in over 100 Libraries in New England and has been endorsed by The
Vermont Arts Council. His programs for all ages have been recognized as heartwarming, educational and
laugh out loud fun.
Special requirements:
None.
29Storytelling with Shawn
Contact person: Shawn Middleton
Location: Durham, NH
Phone: (603) 868-1884
Email: shawn@storytellingwithshawn.com ; shawn.middleton33@gmail.com
Website: www.storytellingwithshawn.com
Ages: All ages
Length: 45-60 minutes
Fee: $275 plus the standard rate for mileage if more than an hour away. block bookings discounts.
Program description:
From 5 children to 200 children, Shawn’s highly interactive storytelling performance will enchant his
audience with a clever array of sound effects, character voices, sign language, mime and hip-hop dance.
Shawn doesn’t just tell stories he brings the stories to life. Children will be engaged, entertained and
educated. Shawn has chosen three beautiful stories to tell. The fable, “The Tortoise and the Hare”
Aesop, The fairytale from England, The Three Little Pigs and an original story written and told by Shawn
called The Boy, The Bees, and the Rootbeer. All three stories will get the children and their families
digging into the characters that rock.
Special requirements:
Just an outlet for my sound system and wireless microphone. Small table and a chair.
30Summer Encore
Contact person: Cathy Archer
Location: Rutland, VT
Phone: (802) 770-1134
Email: cathy.archer@rcpsvt.org
Ages: 5-12
Length: 40-50 minutes
Fee: $200
NOTE: Summer Encore can only be booked July 16-20, 2018.
Program description:
“In Search of a Song” A child hears music everywhere she goes. It seems to her that everyone, the rocks,
the birds, the frogs, even the trees have their own song. She longs to have a song of her very own. But
every time she opens her mouth to sing nothing comes out or worse awful sounds come out. Finally she
decides to go on a quest to find her own song. Who will she meet on her journey? Will she find her own
song? What will it sound like? This will be an audience participation piece with audience members
helping the hero to find his music. There will be keepsakes for the audience members to take home so
they can make music. Summer Encore, which is in its 21st year, is a troupe of students in grades 7-12
who develop a play each year that fits the theme of the reading program.
We offer workshops before the show which will prepare the audience for their participation, for an
additional fee of $100. These are one hour workshops.
Special requirements:
None.
31Susan Rule
Contact person: Susan Rule
Location: Bethel, VT
Phone: (802) 234-5620
Email: susan.rule5620@gmail.com
Ages: 3-10
Length: 45-60 minutes
Fee: $200.00 plus mileage (discounts available for smaller libraries)
Program description:
"Libraries Rock!" will be an original opener to introduce the audience to the many ways libraries enrich
our lives, most importantly through BOOKS! Audience participation will be encouraged as we sing,
move, hand jive, and dance to traditional songs and games, as well as original songs created especially
for this program and sung with guitar accompaniment. Stories about rocks, ( For example: Everybody
Needs a Rock, Sylvester and the Magic Pebble, The Pebble in My Pocket, and others) will be inspiration
for creative storytelling and dramatization.
Susan draws on many years as a music teacher, drama director, and performer to engage children in the
wonders of story and music.
Special requirements:
An indoor open area for children to sit, stand, and move. Chairs in back for adults or older kids.
32Susanna & Joan
Contact person: Joan Robinson
Location: Burlington, VT
Phone: (802) 922-5816
Email: joanrob@burlingtontelecom.net
Website: https://www.facebook.com/joanandsusanna/
Ages: 6 and up
Length: 1 hour
Fee: $250 plus mileage from Burlington (negotiable); 20% discount for block booking.
Program description:
In "Tales for a Harmonic World", dynamic storytelling Susanna Olson and Joan Robinson draw on their
extensive experience working with children as they present a selection of upbeat folktales from around
the world. By combining their voices and actively involving the audience, the pair brings to life the
wisest of stories. The result is a delightful hour where the audience leaves happier and smarter, eager to
create more harmony in the world.
Special requirements:
Indoors, ideally with good acoustics.
33Swing Peepers
Contact person: Matthew Witten
Location: Starksboro, VT
Phone: (802) 434-3236
Email: matt@swingpeepers.com
Website: www.swingpeepers.com
Ages: Families with kids ages 4-12 years old
Length: 45-60 minutes
Fee: $300 plus mileage. Block booking can reduce fees.
Program description:
Through rockin’ songs and improvisational stories, this year the Swing Peepers explore earthy science.
Ever inventive, spontaneous and responsive to kids, John and Matthew of the Swing Peepers take
families on an energetic, fun and participatory journey. At the height of their show, the Swing Peepers
request ideas from the audience and weave them into an impromptu tall tale. Instruments strummed,
swung, and tapped include: guitar, mandolin, harmonica, banjo, ukulele and accordion. Come sing,
move and rock along with the Swing Peepers!
The Swing Peepers duo Matthew Witten and John Hadden have been performing in Vermont and
elsewhere in the Northeast for over 20 years at festivals, schools, parks and libraries. The Swing Peepers
are on the Vermont Art Council’s Juried Roster of Teaching Artists and are based near Camel’s Hump in
Northern Vermont. They have produced four CD recordings.
Special requirements:
The Swing Peepers most often perform without a sound system to maximize intimacy with our
audiences. We do have an excellent sound system available, however, for outdoor events and large
audiences. An additional fee of $50 applies for this service.
34Taradiddle
Contact person: Jean Roberts
Location: Poultney, VT
Phone: (802) 287-5815
Email: taradiddle77@gmail.com
Website: http://taradiddleduo.com/
Ages: family/preschool/elementary
Length: 40-50 minutes
Fee: $100 per program ($25 mileage surcharge for programs outside Rutland/Addison counties)
Program description:
Taradiddle is a storytelling duo (former public librarians Jean Roberts and Daphne Bartholomew) whose
specialty is weaving mostly traditional songs and stories into fun, affordable theme-based programs.
Everyone's invited to join in at a Taradiddle event, and whether the mood is slightly scary or seriously
silly, audiences leave with smiles on their faces and maybe even a new tale or tune to pass along.
For 2018, we'll be looking at characters who find themselves BETWEEN A ROCK AND HARD PLACE--and
the surprising ways music can get you into (or out of) a fix.
Special requirements:
No special equipment. No library or audience too small!
35The Annies Music and Puppets
Contact person: Annie Frelich
Location: Putney, VT
Phone: (802) 387-4710
Email: annie@svcable.net
Website: www.theannies.com
Ages: 2-7 (fun for all young audiences and adults too!)
Length: 45-60 minutes
Fee: $400.anything over 50 miles from Putney VT will have added travel expenses
Program description:
The Annies Music and Puppets combine award winning rockin’ children’s music with a cast of zany
handmade puppet characters and upbeat humor. Do you want to jiggle like jelly and hop like a toad?
This interactive and engaging show invites young audiences to move, groove, and boogie on down!
Special requirements:
The Annies need aproximately 12ft - 16ft wide x10ft deep space, but more space is great! We
sometimes need an electrical outlet. If performing outdoors, we need a protected area to keep
instruments and puppets safe and dry.
36The PuppeTree, Inc.
Contact person: Ann Legunn
Location: Post Mills, VT
Phone: (802) 785-3031
Email: vtpuppet@gmail.com
Website: www.vtpuppeTree.org
Ages: K-6 and family audiences
Length: 45 minutes
Fee: $400
*Note: This show is only available from July 19 - August 15, 2018.
Program description:
Our PuppeTree production of Caps For Sale is a faithful retelling of this delightful, classic children’s book.
And, it’s accompanied by an eclectic and intriguing range of music from Estonia to Mumbai. So, sit back
and hold on as this fully authorized production of Esphyr Slobodkina’s celebration of silliness carries the
audiences’ imagination around the world. In 45 minutes, the PuppeTree celebrates diversity with a
globetrotting romp across seven different cultures, employing the full pallet of puppetry styles, including
hand puppets, Punch-and-Judy-style dancing puppet stages, and of course, shadow puppets. All of these
puppet performers help to bring the laughter filled story from page to stage. The perfect entertainment
for grades K-6 and family audiences.
Special requirements:
A room that can be darkened, and a number of electric outlets
37The Traveling Storyteller and Co.
Contact person: Rina Choiniere
Location: Sheldon, VT
Phone: (802) 393-2697
Email: verydramatic@rocketmail.com
Website: www.travelingstoryteller.com
Ages: 3 years old - 10 years old
Length: 1 hour
Fee: $100-$120 base rate plus mileage and craft
Program description:
The Emperor’s Nightingale
When the emperor hears that the most beautiful thing in his kingdom is the nightingale, he summons all
of his servants to find the nightingale. Once the nightingale has been found, the emperor falls in love
with its beautiful singing. Everyone is happy until the emperor of Africa sends the emperor a mechanical
jeweled nightingale that bedazzles the kingdom and saddens the heart of the true nightingale.
Beauty and the Beast
Charles Poisson must sell all of his belongings and move his family from the city to the country, after his
ship hits a large rock at sea and sinks. One night Charles becomes lost and finds himself at a beautiful
castle. Charles faces the wrath of the owner of the castle, a beast. The beast demands that either
Charles or one of his daughters will have to live with him forever. His daughter, Beauty volunteers to go
and live with the beast.
Special requirements:
None.
38Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS)
Contact person: Linda Conrad
Location: Quechee, VT
Phone: (802) 359-5000 x221
Email: lconrad@vinsweb.org
Website: www.vinsweb.org
Ages: 4 and up
Length: 45 minutes
Fee: $275 plus $1/mile; grant funding may be available to help with mileage fees.
Program description:
2018 Library Program Title: Screech and Hoot – The Science of Bird Communication
Why do owls hoot? What are those hawks talking about? How do scientists find out what birds are
saying? Join VINS this summer at your library and meet some of these talkative hawks, falcons, and owls
up close! We’ll practice identifying raptors by their calls, learn what these vocalizations might mean, and
how they are made. You’ve never heard bird song like this!
Special Requirements:
6 to 8 foot folding table at the front of presentation space. Access to electrical outlet. All guests seated
during the presentation.
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